Searching for a 90's Ford F250/F350… advice for a newbie?

Advice Needed
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I’ve recently fallen in love with 90’s Ford trucks, and it’s taken over my free time. I spend hours scrolling online, trying to find the perfect one.

Specifically, I’m looking for a 1997 F350, non-dually, crew cab, long bed, with 4x4. One thing I really like is the sun visor that’s part of the roof—it just gives it that perfect look for me.

I’ve heard that 1997 was a great year for the 7.3L diesel engine, but I don’t know much about diesels in general. I’d really appreciate some advice. What should I watch out for? What are the red flags? Any tips for keeping it running or finding parts? Thanks so much for your time!

For context, I’d use the truck mostly as a joyride vehicle but also tow occasionally to keep it healthy. Here’s a picture of the truck I’m dreaming of—it’s missing a mirror, but I’d go for those three-prong tow mirrors if I had it.

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Those trucks have gotten expensive, but the sun visor you’re talking about is actually aftermarket. You can add it to any truck.

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Reagan said:
Those trucks have gotten expensive, but the sun visor you’re talking about is actually aftermarket. You can add it to any truck.

That’s great to know! Matching the color sounds like it could be a hassle, though. And yeah, prices are crazy lately, which is disappointing.

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@Maxwell
I bought a ‘96 F350 crew cab long bed with a Powerstroke. It’s a project, but it was cheaper than buying one in great shape.

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Reagan said:
@Maxwell
I bought a ‘96 F350 crew cab long bed with a Powerstroke. It’s a project, but it was cheaper than buying one in great shape.

Honestly, I’d rather save up for one that’s already in good condition. I don’t have the time for a big project. The one I’ve been looking at is listed for almost $20k.

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@Maxwell
That sounds about right. Fixing one up yourself at least helps you learn about the truck. It’s pretty useful when you’re driving a 30-year-old vehicle.

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Reagan said:
@Maxwell
That sounds about right. Fixing one up yourself at least helps you learn about the truck. It’s pretty useful when you’re driving a 30-year-old vehicle.

Fair point. Unfortunately, I’m one of the least mechanically inclined people on the planet. I’ll probably need to find a shop I can trust.

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@Maxwell
Ask around—talk to older folks driving beat-up diesels. They’ll know which shops are good.

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Reagan said:
@Maxwell
Ask around—talk to older folks driving beat-up diesels. They’ll know which shops are good.

Good advice. I’ll start asking around.

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Maxwell said:

Reagan said:
@Maxwell
Ask around—talk to older folks driving beat-up diesels. They’ll know which shops are good.

Good advice. I’ll start asking around.

Also, join diesel Facebook groups for your engine type. Those groups are a great resource.

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@Reagan
Hadn’t even thought of that. Thanks!

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Reagan said:
@Maxwell
I bought a ‘96 F350 crew cab long bed with a Powerstroke. It’s a project, but it was cheaper than buying one in great shape.

By the way, what does ‘CCLB’ mean? And is there a big difference between the F250 and F350 non-dually?

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@Maxwell
CCLB stands for crew cab, long bed. The main differences between the F250 and F350 are an extra leaf spring and rear-end gearing. Unless you’re towing heavy loads regularly, the F250 is probably a better choice.

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@Reagan
I think it’s my pride making me lean toward the F350. That ‘3’ just looks cooler than a ‘2.’ But I’d also like a heavier payload for moving purposes.

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Maxwell said:
@Reagan
I think it’s my pride making me lean toward the F350. That ‘3’ just looks cooler than a ‘2.’ But I’d also like a heavier payload for moving purposes.

F350s are usually more expensive, especially in 4x4. They’re considered the holy grail of OBS (old body style) trucks. Even rarer is the F350 CCSB.

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@Reagan
What’s a CCSB?

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Maxwell said:
@Reagan
What’s a CCSB?

It’s a crew cab, short bed. Super rare. I’ve only ever seen one, and it was a restoration project after being rolled.

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Reagan said:

Maxwell said:
@Reagan
What’s a CCSB?

It’s a crew cab, short bed. Super rare. I’ve only ever seen one, and it was a restoration project after being rolled.

Wow, sounds like a unicorn of a truck!

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If it’s just for cruising, the 460 big block might be more practical than the 7.3 Powerstroke. But if you really want a diesel, go for it. A nice 460 truck will be much cheaper than a nice 7.3.

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Quinlan said:
If it’s just for cruising, the 460 big block might be more practical than the 7.3 Powerstroke. But if you really want a diesel, go for it. A nice 460 truck will be much cheaper than a nice 7.3.

I think I’d prefer a diesel, but can you tell me more about the 460? Is that the 7.5L gas engine?